The
Indian Navy has launched a request for proposal to build four large
projection vessels with dual helicopter carrier and amphibious role.
Indian shipyards were consulted but they had no design to propose. Indian
Navy is therefore contacting foreign partners to for proposals.

Several international groups should answer the request for proposal.
French shipbuilder DCNS with its Mistral class (BPC) already serving
with the French Navy and soon with the Russian Navy, the Italian shipbuilder
Fincantieri with its Multifunctional Ship (MS), Spain's Navantia will
likely offer the Buque of Proyecciones Estratégica (BPE) and
South Koreans shipbuilder Hanjin Heavy Industries could offer their
amphibious assault ship from Dokdo class.

DCNS Mistral
class used by the French Navy and soon by the Russian Navy
(picture: French Navy)

At first glance, DCNS and Fincantieri should have
some advantage over their competition as both shipbuilders already work
with the Indian Navy:

DCNS is working on the Scorpene submarines and P75 engines for corvettes
while the Ficantieri is involved in the Vikrant
aircraft carrier (derived from the Cavour) and Deepak
class replenishment ship. DCNS is even the most established foreign
manufacturer in India, where it has a subsidiary and is making significant
technology transfer.

The French shipbuilder can also highlight the recent choice of Russia,
a leading provider of the Indian armed forces, for its Mistral class
LHD.

The competition should remain very tense however, as all parties involved
are experienced.
From: Mer et Marine